A celebration of Black History on Staten Island planned for Tuesday night

The PS 22 Chorus is among the entertainment scheduled for the free, and open-to-the public celebration of Black History, food, culture and contributions Tuesday night at Prall Intermediate School, West Brighton.Staten Island Advance

STATEN ISLAND, NY -- A celebration of African American culture, cuisine and the contributions of local community leaders is expected to bring out a crowd Tuesday night at Prall Intermediate School in West Brighton.

The free and open-to the-public event organized by the office of Councilwoman Debi Rose (D-North Shore) will highlight how people of African descent have made a lasting impact on Staten Island. "Taste of Soul" will feature free samples of African, Caribbean, Southern and international fusion cuisine from borough restaurants and caterers, and entertainment will include a DJ and a performance by the famous PS 22 Chorus.

The festivities will also feature a live performance by Staten Island music legend Karlus Trapp.

"Soul Food has strong roots in the history and culture of people of African descent from slavery to traditional Sunday family dinners and celebrations, to today's fine dining in well-established restaurants known across the country. More importantly, Soul Food brings people together from all cultures," said Councilwoman Rose, Staten Island's first African-American elected official.

Councilwoman Rose will also honor the achievements of nine Black Americans with the presentation of City Council Proclamations. They are: Michelle Akyempong, vice president of legislation and political action, Social Service Employees Union Local 371, DC 37, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees AFL-CIO; Telee Brown, president of the Staten Island Liberian Community Association; Lee Michael Dobson, coach for Staten Island Bandits; Minnie Graham, director of the Empowerment Zone; Christine Hollie, associate vice president of Community Out Reach and the Colorectal Rectal Screening Program at Staten Island University Hospital as well as the hospital's associate vice president of Respiratory Therapy and Sleep Medicine; Stepfone Montgomery, chief officer and vice president overseeing the Staten Island Railway; Desiree Newsome, owner of Ophelia Service, a cleaning and maintenance service; Jeannine Otis, musician and author; and Ralph Williams, coach for Staten Island Bandits.

The event will be Feb. 26, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Prall Intermediate School, 11 Clove Lake Pl.

A limited number of tables are still available for vendors and food chefs interested in participating in this event. For more information, contact the office of Councilwoman Rose at 718-556-7370.